11 July 2017 -
Waltham Forest has been successful in securing funding from the Mayor’s Air Quality Fund for the launch of a Zero Emissions Courier Scheme.
The scheme will offer a delivery service to local businesses, organisations and charities using zero emission modes, such as cargo bikes and electric vans, to benefit air quality and the local economy.
Following a procurement process an experienced courier company, Outspoken! Delivery, have been selected to operate the scheme alongside Waltham Forest Council. Outspoken! were chosen due to their knowledge and expertise in the area having already set up successful zero emissions courier schemes in Cambridge, Norwich and Glasgow.
With air quality improvements high on Waltham Forest Council’s agenda the scheme proposes to reduce the number of delivery vehicles which are currently contributing to pollution and congestion and replace them with cargo bikes. Cargo bikes also hold a competitive advantage over motor vehicles as can move flexibly around the borough whilst producing no emissions.
Cllr Clyde Loakes, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for the Environment at Waltham Forest Borough Council, said:
“Outspoken! Delivery will be a fantastic partner to build upon the success of the Christmas Courier pilot scheme and help to reduce vehicle emissions in the borough whilst supporting local businesses. Improving air quality is one of my main priorities and this scheme will help to transform how deliveries to and from businesses and residents are made whilst making our streets healthier places to live.”
Waltham Forest is also committed to supporting local businesses within the borough; Waltham Forest has thousands of small independent businesses which can utilise the benefits this scheme will provide. The scheme will also encourage shopping locally which will contribute to all businesses in the borough thriving.
The scheme follows the success of the ‘Christmas Courier’ pilot which saw 20 businesses participate and over 1,000 parcels delivered in December 2016.
We will use feedback and lessons learnt from the pilot to ensure that this scheme benefits all. The scheme is highly innovative as will be the first zero emissions courier scheme run by a council in London.
If you would like to get involved or find out more please email localdeliveries@walthamforest.gov.uk
